International Studies

The interdisciplinary major in international studies is designed to assist the student in learning to analyze complex global issues, to function successfully in an international environment and to develop intercultural sensitivity to the human context in which international interactions take place. Students who choose to major or minor in International Studies will select one of these tracks and meet the requirements outlined here.

The International Studies: International Affairs track provides a broad-based background plus study of a second language to prepare for a range of career options in diplomacy, international business, education, media, law, banking, international governmental and nongovernmental organizations and tourism. All students take the Introduction to International Studies course which develops an understanding of the interaction of multiple factors which underlie many of today’s global problems. Students will also investigate the important role of governments internationally and select courses which deepen understanding of humans and the earth, the historical setting in which interactions take place, the increasing importance of culture, society and economic issues. Students may choose a specialization by choosing a minor in Latin America, Asian Studies, Africana Studies or Middle East and North Africa or self-designed concentration in a functional area focused on international business/economics, foreign policy/diplomacy or history/society/culture. All students select a research methods course and a special topics capstone seminar which focuses on current problems of international concern and includes a research project on a topic of choice.

The International Studies: National Security track provides a more specialized foundation for evaluating both domestic and global threats to security and the related problems associated with governance, violence and war, health and the environment in today’s interdependent world. The track is oriented to understanding the impact of advancing technology combined with the human and cultural factors which complicate decision-making on issues related to risk. This track is appropriate for motivated critical thinkers with an interest in security-related careers oriented to foreign policy, intelligence or law enforcement at the national or local levels or in the emerging areas of business and service organizations which support the maintenance of national security. All students will take an introductory course in Security, Technology and Threat Assessment plus courses focused on U.S. homeland security and related research and analytical skills. Students will also select courses from a variety of academic disciplines which provide a more in-depth look at particular types of 21st century security issues related to military, environmental and health problems. In each area, students will select a combination of entry level and 300-400 level courses appropriate to the students’ personal and professional interests in consultation with their advisor. All students will also complete a research project focused on security in a capstone seminar.

Both tracks prepare students for globally oriented careers and/or graduate school. Recent graduates are employed by the U.S. government at the State Department, NSA, CIA, Defense, Federal Air Marshals, Homeland Security, Customs, Peace Corps, or in various branches of the military as well as many nongovernmental organizations.

Minors in any discipline represented in the majors, are recommended as are foreign language, math or science.

Direct all questions related to the International Studies major or minor to Dr. Judy Krutky, Chair of the Committee Supervising the International Studies Major.